In the bustling Waldorf Astoria hotel in New York City on January 17, 1953, General Motors revealed a groundbreaking concept: the mass production of fiberglass bodied automobiles. This revolutionary idea, showcased at the Corvette motor show, captured the imagination of the 45,000 visitors.
While the iconic Corvette stole the spotlight, other GM divisions also presented their own ‘dream cars.’ Among these was the Oldsmobile Starfire, a personal luxury car that, despite not making it to production at the time, would later inspire the Chevrolet Bel Air.
The Corvette, though not the first fiberglass bodied car, quickly gained popularity due to its innovative design and extensive marketing campaign. However, it wasn’t the only car to feature this lightweight material.
The Oldsmobile Starfire also showcased at the 1953 Motorama, demonstrated the potential of fiberglass in creating sleek and stylish vehicles. While the Starfire itself didn’t go into production in its original form, its influence can be seen in later models like the Chevrolet Bel Air.
The 1970 HEMI Cuda, a classic muscle car, has been preserved in remarkable condition. Despite its age, it boasts 90% of its original paint and original, rust-free sheet metal. The car’s original 426 HEMI V8 engine and four speed automatic transmission remain intact.
While the current listing doesn’t specify, previous information suggests the engine may have a higher-lift cam. The Cuda’s low mileage, just 20,612 miles, further adds to its value. These exceptional qualities place the Cuda in a select group of fewer than 20 examples worth over $250,000.
The most expensive 1970 HEMI Cuda hardtop sold for $605,000, and several others have fetched over $300,000 at auction. The Cuda’s remarkable preservation is a testament to its owner’s care and attention to detail. The car’s original paint and sheet metal are rare finds in a classic car, especially one that has been driven for over 50 years.
The original engine and transmission are also highly sought-after by collectors. The Cuda’s low mileage further adds to its appeal, as it is a relatively rare example of a classic car that has not been heavily driven.
Given the Cuda’s exceptional condition and rarity, it is likely to be a highly desirable car for collectors. The car’s recent auction price of $250,000 is a testament to its value. It is possible that the Cuda could fetch an even higher price if it were to be auctioned again in the future.
It remains to be seen if the owner will sell the Cuda through eBay or a major auction house like Mecum. Regardless of where the car is sold, it is sure to be a highly anticipated event for classic car enthusiasts.
